Alder & Stone notes
Land suitability: what we look for before we'll let you buy a lot
Eight checks we run on every lot before signing a build contract — drainage, percolation, easement creep, and the soil cores most realtors don't run.
We've walked away from lots that looked perfect on paper. We've also championed lots that looked rough but had bones. The difference is the eight-point suitability check we run before signing any build contract — and we won't take a client onto a lot until we've done it.
The eight checks: (1) drainage and watershed mapping; (2) percolation test for septic; (3) easement and right-of-way audit; (4) setback compliance vs the buildable footprint you want; (5) soil cores for foundation engineering; (6) tree-protection ordinance check; (7) utility tap availability and cost; and (8) HOA architectural review (where applicable). We run the lot in writing before deposit clears.
Why we do this: we've seen too many clients buy a lot, then learn their dream house won't fit because of a setback they didn't catch. It's a hard conversation. We'd rather have it before the lot closes.
Tell us about your project
A complimentary consultation. A direct line to Owen.
Sixty minutes with our principal architect. Walk your lot, frame the program, get a candid view on feasibility and budget. No deck, no upsell, no obligation.